Encounter for child welfare exam

This code signifies a medical encounter for a child undergoing an assessment specifically related to child welfare services. This typically involves a general health evaluation and documentation of the child's physical and developmental status, often as part of a protective services investigation or placement process. The examination aims to ensure the child's well-being and identify any immediate health concerns.

Use this code for children receiving a medical examination requested by child protective services, social workers, or the court system for general welfare purposes. This applies when the primary reason for the visit is to assess the child's overall health in the context of a welfare investigation, foster care placement, or other non-abuse-specific child protection activities.

• Do not use this code if the primary reason for the encounter is an allegation of child physical abuse or rape; refer to the Excludes2 notes for those specific scenarios.
• This code is for the encounter for the exam; additional codes for specific findings or diagnoses identified during the exam should also be reported.
• Ensure documentation clearly indicates the examination was performed in conjunction with child welfare services.